Nurse practitioners in Illinois

Nurse practitioners are registered nurses with graduate training who examine patients, diagnose illnesses, order tests, and prescribe medication. Many provide primary care; others focus on a specialty.

No — you can usually book with a primary care provider directly. Your primary care provider is often the one who writes referrals to specialists.

Doctors contract with specific insurance networks, not entire insurance companies — and sometimes only at certain offices. Once you've found a few options here, check them in your insurer's online directory or call the member services number on your card, then confirm with the office when you book.

Under HIPAA you have a right to a copy of your records, usually within 30 days of asking. Contact the practice's medical records department and make your request in writing. Our free guide walks through the process and includes a request letter template.